Never Bean Better Day

Never Bean Better Day celebrates Bean, a well-known therapy dog, and highlights the comfort and support therapy animals can bring to people’s lives. Animal-assisted visits and therapy programs often involve dogs, but other animals may also be part of supportive care and educational settings.

History of Never Bean Better Day

Never Bean Better Day is observed on August 22, the birthday of a Golden Retriever named Bean. Born in 2009 in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, Bean became a registered therapy dog and later visited hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, and schools.

Bean became widely known through charitable events, public appearances, and therapy work. In 2017, Never Bean Better Day was officially declared, turning Bean’s birthday into an annual observance.

The day also helps draw attention to the comfort, encouragement, and companionship that therapy animals can provide in many different settings.

Interesting Facts About Never Bean Better Day

Never Bean Better Day is also a good time to learn more about therapy animals and the roles they play.

1. Therapy animals are often invited to hospitals, schools, care facilities, and community programs.
2. They are different from service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability.
3. Dogs are the animals most commonly associated with therapy visits and support programs.
4. Animal-assisted support programs are often valued for the comfort and calm they can bring to people in stressful situations.

These facts help explain why therapy animals are appreciated in so many communities.

How to Take Part in Never Bean Better Day

There are several simple ways to take part in Never Bean Better Day and recognize the value of therapy animals.

• Show appreciation for your own pet with extra time, attention, or a favorite treat.
• Learn more about therapy animal programs in your area and how they support local communities.
• Support an animal charity, rescue group, or therapy animal organization through donations or volunteer work.
• Share information about therapy animals and the comfort they bring to people.
• Thank handlers and volunteers who give their time to therapy animal visits and community programs.

The day is also a reminder to appreciate the everyday companionship animals provide, whether they are certified therapy animals or beloved family pets.

When Is Never Bean Better Day in 2026?

Never Bean Better Day is observed on August 22 each year.

Observations